Mark Taylor signs deal as lead cricket expert for Nine

Former Australian captain Mark Taylor is set to continue his long relationship with Nine, signing on as Wide World of Sports’ lead cricket expert for the next three years.

The former skipper has been with Nine for 21 years, joining the network while he was still captaining Australia. He will continue to provide his expert analysis across the network.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to continue my association with the Nine family, a fantastic relationship which began over 20 years ago,” Taylor said.

“I look forward to calling all the biggest matches for the foreseeable future, including next year’s Ashes series, and the cricket World Cups in the years to come.”

Nine’s Director of Sport, Tom Malone, welcomed Taylor’s decision.

“I’m so happy Mark has renewed his contract with Nine. Ian Chappell says Mark is the greatest captain he ever saw – in combining cricket tactics and leadership skills. He’s the perfect choice to be Wide World of Sports’ lead cricket expert over the next 3 years,” he said.

“Beyond that, Mark is one of the greatest people you will ever meet. Of course he’s a former Australian of the Year and Father of the Year, and he’s been given those honours because he’s a kind and generous person. At Nine – we love him!”

Taylor will be part of the panel for Saturday’s One Day International, when England plays Australia, live and free on Nine from 7:30pm.

“For me there’s plenty of opportunities for the younger players in this series,” Taylor said.

“With the World Cup in England in 2019, there’s no doubt in my mind that a good performance in the next couple of weeks can put a player firmly in the frame for a World Cup spot.

“Especially from a bowling point of view, I think Australia’s recent form with the ball in one-dayers hasn’t been that good, and there’s the opportunity for someone to really put their hand up and demand selection going forward.”

Mark Taylor will join Michael Slater, Lisa Sthalekar and David Warner for the second one day international between England and Australia, live and free on Nine from 7:30pm Saturday.